Start advantage in short race: In a 250 m race, A:B speed ratio is 1:2. If A starts 140 m ahead, by how many metres does A win?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 15 m

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Given a significant head start and a speed disadvantage, we compute where A is when B finishes to get A’s winning margin.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Race length = 250 m
  • v_A : v_B = 1 : 2
  • A starts at 140 m mark


Concept / Approach:
Time for B to finish = 250/(2u). In that time, A covers additional distance (time * u) beyond the 140 m head start.


Step-by-Step Solution:

t = 250/(2u) = 125/uA distance at B’s finish = 140 + u * (125/u) = 265 mMargin = 265 − 250 = 15 m


Verification / Alternative check:
Proportional scaling confirms A’s progress in half the time B needs (since v_A is half of v_B).


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They mismatch the precise computation using ratio 1:2 and the given head start.


Common Pitfalls:
Adding/subtracting ratios directly instead of using time comparisons.


Final Answer:
15 m

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